Utah fireflies are only out for a short period of time!
They twinkle and sparkle through the night sky—you know fireflies for their lantern-like glow. But here’s something that might surprise you: this magical little bug can actually be spotted in Utah!
We teamed up with nature enthusiast Lisa Stanworth to create your ultimate Utah Fireflies Field Guide—complete with where to go, what to expect, and how to make the most of your glowing adventure.
When Is Firefly Season in Utah?
Fireflies appear from late May through early August, but here’s the catch: the magic only lasts about two weeks in any given location. Once they emerge, you’ll want to act fast—your window to witness them is short!
What Time Do Fireflies Come Out?
Timing is everything. Fireflies begin to glow at dusk—about 30 minutes after sunset—and are most active in the early evening. Arrive a bit early, get settled, and let the sky dim for the best viewing experience.
What Conditions Do Fireflies Like?
These glowing insects are picky about their environment. They thrive in:
- Warm nights
- Wet, dark areas like marshes, meadows, and fields
- Tall grass and shrubs
- Especially active after rain
These conditions help support their glow and their delicate life cycle.
Should I Bring a Flashlight?
Skip the flashlight. Fireflies communicate using their light patterns, and bright lights from flashlights or phones can disrupt their signals. Let your eyes adjust naturally and enjoy the ambiance.
Where Can I See Fireflies in Utah?
Lisa shared a few of Utah’s best firefly hot spots:
Spanish Fork Firefly Festival
Kick off firefly season with a family-friendly evening on Tuesday, May 27 at 6:30 PM! Enjoy story time, crafts, UV face painting, a blacklight dance party, and live animal encounters with Loveland Aquarium.
Location: 80 S Main St, Spanish Fork, UT
Find more information on their website.
Thompson Century Farm
Located in Spanish Fork, this working farm is the perfect spot for first-time firefly watchers and families. It hosts a magical celebration of all things fireflies.
Location: 7421 S River Bottoms Rd, Spanish Fork, UT 84660
Check the Thompson Century Farm’s Facebook group for up-to-date event details.
Nibley Firefly Park
Tucked in Cache Valley, this park offers guided firefly walks and tours—ideal for an educational, immersive experience.
Location: 2456 S 800 W, Nibley, UT
For more family-friendly adventures and nature outings, follow Lisa on Instagram: @chooseyourhappyplace.
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